3 Ways to Spark Creativity

There are times when trying to finish a project or write an essay but the creativity just isn’t there. You sit and sit at your laptop but the task just seems impossible. We’ve all been there. Here are some simple ways to get those creative juices flowing.

Take a Break

Why is that some of our best ideas come to us in the shower? Or right before we fall asleep? Or even when cleaning the kitchen? If you’re having problems coming up with an idea the best solution is to walk away. No, this doesn’t mean give up on the issue at hand. Rather give yourself some flexibility and time to think on the matter in a different way. When your brain isn’t straining itself to produce results it is able to open up and think calmly. Hence why you find your keys the moment you stop looking for them.

Switch it up

Try facing the situation from a totally different perspective. You can do this by going through the process backward or seeking contradictions. When mentally running through a process backward your brain will think of scenarios not thought of yet. As humans, we all have experience confirmation bias. This leads us to seek out facts and conversations that confirm our beliefs, ideas and opinions. Although this is a key part of our identity it can quickly lead to narrow-minded thinking. So, switch it up! The point is not to get upset or change your beliefs but to generate ideas you have not thought of before.

Give Your Mind a Workout

There are several different ways you can stimulate your creative thinking. A few minutes of alternative uses testing is a great way to do this. For example, take a common item like a paperclip and think of all of the different ways you can use this item. Give yourself two minutes to think of as many alternative uses as you can for said paperclip. It can open key chain rings, hold necklaces or clean under fingernails. Once the two minutes are up your brain is energized and ready to go. This is a great way to quickly energize your mind if you’ve been in a rut.

Now get to typing, running or whatever it is that inspires you! Turn on #GIRLBOSS mode and get to work.